Project Update
OSCE prepares the next generation of justice professionals to combat gender-based violence in Albania
- Issued on:
- Issued by:
- Transnational Threats Department
- Fields of work:
- Policing, Gender-based violence
The OSCE Transnational Threats Department brought together future judges and public prosecutors to strengthen victim-centred approaches to gender-based violence within the criminal justice system. Held on 21 May in Tirana, the course was organized in co-operation with the OSCE Presence in Albania and the School of Magistrates of Albania.
The training aimed to develop the skills of 26 aspiring criminal justice professionals to effectively handle cases of gender-based violence while upholding a victim- and survivor-centered approach. It combined theoretical knowledge with a practice-oriented and interdisciplinary methodology, highlighting the role of judges and public prosecutors in the criminal justice system.
Participants enhanced their understanding of the dynamics and impact of gender-based violence and gained insight into diverse professional perspectives, including those of civil society organizations. The course served as a platform for students to learn from good practices and case law and supported the integration of trauma-informed practices into judicial and prosecutorial decision-making.
The training also included an innovative theatre performance by professional actors, offering participants a different perspective on gender-based violence to foster empathy and deepen their understanding of these crimes.
“The course will improve my ability to assess risk, avoid biases, and ensure more effective protection for victims,” said one of the participants.
Organized under the OSCE extra-budgetary project "Enhancing Criminal Justice Capacities for Combating Gender-Based Violence in South-Eastern Europe", the event forms part of the OSCE’s efforts to support effective responses to gender-based violence within the criminal justice system, with a focus on the protection of victims. The event was financially supported by Italy and Norway, while the project is co-funded by Austria, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, and Norway.